Exclusive Quebec Private Garrison Club Garden BBQ Luncheon

If you’re looking to add a touch of exclusivity to your trip to Quebec City, this Private Garrison Club Garden BBQ Luncheon offers a rare glimpse into a private club that’s normally closed to outsiders. This experience combines culinary delight with history, offering a taste of Canadian tradition and sophistication in a setting that’s both intimate and storied.

What we love about this tour is the chance to dine in a club where every Canadian Prime Minister has held membership, and the flexible, relaxed atmosphere—whether you’re enjoying the fresh air in the garden or cozying up indoors. The delicious, changing menu keeps things interesting, and the optional visit to La Citadelle provides a meaningful cultural complement.

A possible consideration is the limited availability and the need for early booking—this isn’t a last-minute plan. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate history, good food, and a bit of exclusivity, especially those who enjoy outdoor settings when the weather cooperates.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Dine at a private club with a 135-year-old history, typically closed to the public.
• Balanced Experience: Combines culinary delights with cultural and military sights.
• Flexible Setting: Choice between outdoor garden or indoor dining depending on weather.
• Value for Price: Includes a fixed menu, a glass of wine or mocktail, parking, tax, and gratuity.
• Limited Availability: Book about a month in advance for a spot.
• Cultural Depth: Optional visit to La Citadelle adds a military history layer.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Location and Atmosphere

The tour begins at the historic Québec Garrison Club, a private hotel with a distinguished 135-year history. This isn’t just a fancy restaurant; it’s a place where Canada’s Prime Ministers have been known to hold membership, making it a significant site for those interested in Canadian political and military lore.

Guests are welcomed with the opportunity to arrive early, around 11:30am, to enjoy drinks and soak in the atmosphere before lunch service begins at noon. The club’s setting offers a calming, refined environment, whether you’re outside in the garden, which is especially inviting on sunny days, or inside in the warm, intimate rooms that exude a sense of history and understated elegance.

The Culinary Experience

The meal is a fixed menu, with a focus on barbecue-style dishes prepared outdoors when weather permits. We liked that the menu varies weekly, so repeat visitors could look forward to discovering new flavors. The meal begins with a fresh salad bar and soup, setting a light, refreshing tone.

The main course is a flavorful grilled dish, which could include a variety of meats or vegetarian options, based on the week’s menu. The emphasis is on well-prepared, outdoor-cooked fare rather than heavy barbecue ribs or chicken, which makes it more accessible and lighter. The experience is often praised for the delicious food—one reviewer specifically noted the “delicious food” and the outdoor cooking process adds a special touch.

Dessert concludes the meal with a sweet treat, served alongside tea or coffee. The included one glass of wine or a mocktail for those 18 and over adds a touch of relaxation, making the meal feel more festive without tipping into extravagance.

The Setting and Weather Considerations

One of the highlights is dining in the garden on sunny days, where the fresh air and outdoor surroundings enhance the experience. If rain or poor weather strikes, the cozy indoor rooms are a perfect backup. The club’s interior is described as warm and elegant, providing a comfortable refuge that preserves the sense of occasion.

The Optional La Citadelle Visit

Adding a visit to La Citadelle, Canada’s largest fortified military site, is a smart way to extend the experience and deepen your understanding of Quebec’s military history. The active site offers guided tours, exhibits, sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River, and a closer look at the Royal 22e Régiment.

This optional visit provides a meaningful cultural contrast to the leisurely lunch, offering insights into Quebec’s strategic importance and military heritage. Many find that combining the two creates a well-rounded, memorable day.

Practical Details

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect midday activity.
• Price: $144.75 per person, which includes the meal, a drink, parking, tax, and gratuity, representing good value considering the exclusivity.
• Booking: Usually booked about 32 days in advance, so plan ahead if this experience appeals.
• Attire: Business casual is recommended—think polo shirts, Bermuda shorts, and sport shoes. Avoid T-shirts, jeans, or sneakers to respect the dress code.
• Accessibility: Near public transportation, and most travelers can participate, but check for dietary restrictions with advance notice.
• Cancellation: Fully refundable if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind when booking.

Real Traveler Insights

Our review of past comments reveals a generally positive experience. One guest called it a “delicious food” outing, appreciating the outdoor prep and the changing menu. Another noted the minor bugs and sunny weather as potential minor annoyances, but overall, the experience remains highly rated.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This experience balances culinary delight with cultural intrigue, making it ideal for travelers who value history, good food, and a touch of exclusivity. Whether you’re a history buff interested in Quebec’s military past or a foodie eager to try a different kind of BBQ, this tour offers something special.

It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy outdoor dining when the weather allows, and who appreciate small, intimate settings with a sense of history. It’s not the place for those seeking a quick, casual lunch, but rather for travelers looking for a memorable, refined experience that’s both culturally meaningful and delicious.

Final Thoughts

The Exclusive Quebec Private Garrison Club Garden BBQ Luncheon stands out as a unique way to combine history, culture, and cuisine in Quebec City. Its private, historic setting elevates what might otherwise be a simple meal into a memorable event. The inclusion of La Citadelle makes it not just a lunch, but a mini culture.

Considering the value for the price, the exclusivity, and the opportunity to enjoy Quebec’s beautiful outdoor spaces and storied military sites, this tour offers a distinctive experience. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate finer details—whether in history, scenery, or cuisine—and are eager to connect with Quebec’s royal and military past in an exclusive setting.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for adults or older children due to the nature of the setting and dress code.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, about 32 days ahead. Because availability is limited, early booking is recommended.

What should I wear?
Business casual attire is preferred—think polo shirts, Bermuda shorts, and sport shoes. Avoid jeans, T-shirts, or sneakers.

Can I accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, just inform the staff when booking or upon arrival. Vegetarian options can be arranged.

Is outdoor dining weather-dependent?
Yes, on sunny days, outdoor garden dining is offered. Indoor options are available in case of rain.

What’s included in the price?
A fixed menu lunch, one glass of wine or mocktail, parking, tax, and gratuity are included.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less than 24 hours, and the fee is non-refundable.

Is there transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the site is not included, so plan your arrival accordingly.

Can I visit La Citadelle separately?
The La Citadelle visit is an optional extension to the main experience, offering guided tours and military exhibits.

How long does the entire experience last?
Approximately 2 hours, making it a relaxed yet engaging midday activity.

This private BBQ luncheon at Quebec’s Garrison Club offers a rare chance to enjoy good food in a historic setting, with the added bonus of military site insights. It’s a special slice of Quebec life that’s well worth considering for a memorable travel experience.